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Meghan Markle’s Parents: A Deep Dive into Her Parents, Doria Ragland and Thomas Markle Sr.

  • June 2, 2025
  • 7 minute read
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Meghan Markle

‘s marriage to Prince Harry

has brought into the spotlight not just her, but all the nitty-gritty details of her life as well, including her parents. Understanding the backgrounds and lives of Doria Ragland and Thomas Markle Sr. provides insight into the influences that shaped Meghan’s upbringing and character. An exploration of who Markle’s parents are, their relationship history, and the status of their connections with their daughter will shed light on the family dynamics behind one of the world’s most talked-about figures.

A closer look at Meghan Markle’s parents reveals contrasting lives and relationships that have impacted the Duchess profoundly.

The Life of Meghan’s Mother, Doria Ragland

Doria Ragland is a remarkable figure in Meghan Markle’s life, known for her steady presence and supportive nature. Born on September 2, 1956, in Cleveland, Ohio, Doria moved to California as a child. She is the daughter of Jeanette Arnold, a nurse, and Alvin Azell Ragland, an antiques dealer. Her family history includes African American ancestry with roots tracing back to enslaved ancestors in the southern United States.

Professionally, Doria Ragland has worn many hats. She initially worked as a makeup artist before transitioning into roles as a yoga instructor and social worker. She earned a Master of Social Work degree from the University of Southern California in 2011 and has worked in mental health, focusing on elderly patients. Ragland’s calm and grounded personality has been a source of strength for Markle, especially during her transition into royal life.

Ragland was the only member of Markle’s family to attend her wedding to Prince Harry in 2018, bringing to light their close bond. She has also met with members of the British royal family and continues to support Markle and Harry’s endeavors. Despite the intense media scrutiny, Doria Ragland has maintained a relatively private life, living near the couple in California and continuing her work in social care.

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Understanding the background that Markle stems from reveals a rather humble beginning for the now turned Royalty of a woman. 

Meghan Markle’s Father: Thomas Markle Sr.

Thomas Markle Sr., born in 1944, is Meghan Markle’s father and a retired television lighting director. His career in the entertainment industry was notable, having worked on popular shows such as General Hospital, for which he won multiple Emmy Awards. Thomas’s background is predominantly of German, English, and Irish descent, with his ancestors having deep roots in American history. He was raised in Newport, Pennsylvania, and has two brothers. Thomas was previously married before his relationship with Doria Ragland, with whom he had Meghan.

His relationship with Meghan has been complicated, especially in recent years. He was unable to attend Meghan’s wedding to Prince Harry due to heart surgery, but several other narratives have been fueled following the event and Thomas Markle Sr. has since had limited contact with his daughter. Despite this, Thomas remains a figure of public interest due to his connection to the Duchess of Sussex.

Though their relationship has been strained, Thomas Markle’s past and career achievements reflect a man who once had a promising professional life in television production. His story contrasts with Doria Ragland’s, particularly in terms of the diverse influences on Markle’s upbringing. Thomas’ absence from Meghan’s royal life events residues the complexities of their family dynamics.

The story of Doria Ragland and Thomas Markle Sr.

Doria Ragland and Thomas Markle Sr. met in California in the late 1970s. At the time, Doria was working as a makeup artist, and Thomas was involved in television production. Their relationship led to marriage in 1979, and they welcomed their daughter, Meghan Markle, in 1981. However, the marriage was short-lived, ending in divorce in 1987 when Markle, who would go on to play Rachel Zane on hit show Suits

—was just six years old.

The couple’s separation meant that Markle was primarily raised by her mother, with whom she has maintained a close relationship. The early split also meant that Markle experienced a blended family dynamic, with half-siblings from her father’s previous marriage. The circumstances of their meeting and subsequent divorce have been part of the narrative that shaped Markle’s childhood and family life.

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Doria Ragland’s nurturing role and Thomas Markle Sr.’s more distant presence have created a complex family environment. Their story is one of contrasts—between unity and separation, support and distance.

The Nature of Meghan Markle’s Relationship with Her Parents

Meghan Markle’s relationship with her parents is markedly different. She shares a strong and supportive bond with her mother, Doria Ragland, whom she has often spoken warmly about, emphasizing the positive influence she has had on her life and career. Doria Ragland, has been a constant source of strength and guidance. Ragland’s presence at major moments in Markle’s life, including her struggles before landing a role on Suits

,

as well as her royal wedding and other public appearances, highlighting their closeness.

In contrast, Markle’s relationship with her father, Thomas Markle Sr., has been strained and distant. Health issues and personal conflicts have kept them apart, and Thomas’s Markle Sr.’s absence at significant family events, including his daughter’s wedding, has been widely publicized. Despite attempts at reconciliation, the father-daughter relationship remains complicated. Although the internet remains divided on the matter.

Meghan Markle’s parents, Doria Ragland and Thomas Markle Sr., each bring unique stories and backgrounds that have shaped the Duchess of Sussex’s life. Doria’s nurturing, professional dedication, and cultural heritage have provided Markle, who has recently even been offered an on-screen reprise,

with a strong foundation and unwavering support. Meanwhile, Thomas’s career achievements and personal struggles reflect a more complicated relationship with his daughter. Together, their histories and interactions reveal the complexities behind Meghan Markle’s journey to date. 

Read More: Hold Onto Your Teacups! Meghan Markle Just Made Her Netflix Series Season 2 Official

What do you think of this rather humble tale of a royalty in the making? Let us know in the comments below.

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